Tour Overview
With a coastline that stretches thousands of kilometers, more than 1,000 offshore islands, and where a mild Mediterranean climate eases you through the worst ravages of autumn and winter, Croatia’s appeal is obvious. Throw in chocolate-box pretty Venetian old towns, whose terracotta roof tiles find themselves in the starring role of many an iconic photograph, rugged mountain ranges and melt-in-the-mouth Adriatic seafood, and the cocktail becomes even more intoxicating. Although the coast is undoubtedly the shining star of Croatia tourism, off the beaten track the country also boasts undulating hills in inland Istria, where ornate hilltop towns, great food, good domestic wine and a proliferation of black and white truffles has earned it favorable comparisons with Tuscany. In the north of the country the historic castles of the Zagorje and more rolling green hills await. The oft ignored region of Slavonia, in the east of the country, rewards a visit with the stately riverside city of Osijek and the unquashable spirit of Vukovar, which is still fighting back from the worst ravages of the Homeland War, as well as vineyards and castles of its own. First-time visitors to the country’s capital, Zagreb, quickly shrug off anachronistic images of communist era deprivations, as they are greeted by a vibrant and grand metropolis complete with all the trappings of modern day life, an attractive old town and lush green spaces. A haven for gastronomes and sun worshippers alike, Croatia is also emerging as an adventure destination. Unspoiled countryside lends itself to cycling and hiking, as well as serious mountaineering, while the expansive coastline is perfect for almost every type of watersport imaginable. The Island of Brac even hosts the annual Vanka Regule extreme sports festival. When it comes to sailing, Croatia is legendary, with myriad marinas and islands on hand up and down the coast.Day by Day Itinerary
Day 01: Dubrovnik, CroatiaArrive Dubrovnik, you are met and transferred to your hotel for check-in and balance of your day at leisure. Hotel Lero overlooks the crystal blue Adriatic Sea and is 1.2km from the historical city. Unanimously considered the jewel of Croatia, Dubrovnik is best known for its well-preserved historic center contained within 13th-century city walls, its terracotta rooftops, and a stunning location overlooking the Adriatic.
Hotel Lero Day 02: Dubrovnik
Morning tour of Dubrovnik, inscribed on the List of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Walk around the medieval ramparts that encircle the city. Visit to Sponza Palace, notable for its columned courtyard with elaborate stone carvings, the impressive Rector's Palace, church of St Blaise and the 14th century Franciscan Monastery - the cloister of which is one of the most inspiring sites of the city, with the oldest pharmacy in Europe. Afternoon at leisure.
Breakfast
Hotel Lero Day 03: Dubronik
Transfer to the old city harbor where you will take a short cruise to Lokrum. Enjoy a guided visit to this small island with an interesting history and natural beauty. Return to Dubrovnik pier and continue by car to Cavtat, an ancient town of Epidaurum from which the town Dubrovnik ‘Ragusa’ was founded. Cavtat is a town of beautiful palaces, summer mansions and hotels, with a pleasant climate and luxurious vegetation. Enjoy time in Cavtat, we suggest a visit Vlaho Bukovac gallery and/or outside visit of Racic family memorial chapel. (under construction). Late afternoon return transfer to your hotel.
Breakfast
Hotel Lero Day 04: Dubrovnik - Split
Morning departure to Split. The ride passes through the most beautiful part of the Adriatic coast. You may stop for lunch (on own) to taste exquisite oysters grown in Ston Channel before crossing the border into and out of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Arrive Split and check in to your hotel. Globo is a city hotel located in the center of Split, close to cultural attractions. After check-in, enjoy an afternoon guided walking tour. At the center of this sprawling cityscape is the palace that Emperor Diocletian built during his golden years at the turn of the 4th century. The mausoleum of the pagan Roman emperor evolved with time into the oldest Roman Catholic Church. Tour of the Palace including the entire new wing, which has recently been opened after 50 years of excavations. What first was an imperial residence and fortified camp is nowadays an intriguing maze of narrow cobblestone streets where pre-Romanesque churches are nestled along the Gothic chapels. History-filled museums boast galleries of contemporary art and aroma - alluring restaurants compete with bustling cafes for the attention of the people that pass them by.
Breakfast
Hotel Globo Day 05: Split - Zagreb
Transfer to the airport for a short morning flight to Croatia’s capital, Zagreb. You are met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Hotel Dubrovnik is situated on the main Zagreb square called “Trg Ban J. Jelačić”, this ideal location can serve as your gateway to the very heart of the city.
At your doorstep you will find the most important cultural, government and business institutions, the main shopping area, the open-air market, lively cafes and taverns, historical upper town and parks and promenades. This afternoon, enjoy an orientation walking tour through the city and, visit Mimara Museum, then take a walking tour of medieval Kaptol and Gradec. Croatia’s economic,
cultural and administrative heart, on the north bank of the river Sava. Its historic nuclei Gradec and Kaptol, in Gornji Grad (Upper Town) were founded in the Middle Ages.
Breakfast
Hotel Dubrovnik Day 06: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Full-day excursion to UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plitvice Lakes with visit to 300 year-old settlement of Rastoke en route. Enjoy the day in the park to explore the 16 crystal-blue lakes cascading into 92 spectacular waterfalls. Walk on wooden promenades to view majestic and pristine waters where every turn leads to breathtaking scenery and yet another waterfall. Late afternoon return to Zagreb.
Breakfast
Hotel Dubrovnik Day 07: Zagreb - Depart
Transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
Breakfast
